When one thinks of “quality education,” the United States inevitably comes to mind—and for decades, it has remained a top destination for Indian students seeking world-class academic opportunities. Among the many esteemed institutions across the country, Lamar University stands out for its strong academic offerings, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. As one of the fastest-growing universities in Texas, with an R2 Carnegie research designation and a diverse, community, Lamar offers a perfect blend of affordability, excellence, and global relevance. Recognizing these qualities, The Academic Insights is proud to feature Lamar University in our list of Top 10 USA Universities and Colleges for Indian Students in 2025.
The Foundation
Established in 1923 in Beaumont, Texas, Lamar University (LU) has evolved from a junior college into a nationally recognized public research institution. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), LU holds the prestigious Carnegie classification as a Doctoral Research University. With an enrollment exceeding 17,000 students, the university is known for its hands-on, career-focused learning environment, offering a diverse array of academic programs that align with global industry demands—especially in the STEM and business domains.
Lamar University is especially renowned for its ABET-accredited engineering programs—spanning Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, and Industrial Engineering—which are acclaimed for their rigorous academic framework and emphasis on experiential learning. The Computer Science program stands out as well, offering a well-rounded curriculum that integrates internships, applied research, and innovation-driven projects. Additionally, the College of Business remains a major draw for international students, with graduate programs such as the MBA, Management Information Systems (MIS), Finance, Marketing, and Management—all tailored to cultivate globally competent business professionals.
A Supportive and Community
Lamar University stands out as a dynamic hub for international education, welcoming students from over 62 countries and offering a comprehensive support system that ensures a seamless and enriching academic journey. The Office of Admissions provides personalized guidance throughout the enrollment process—from understanding application requirements and issuing I-20 documents to assisting with student visa procedures—helping international students begin their Cardinal journey with clarity and confidence.
Once on campus, the Office of International Education and Services (OIES) becomes the cornerstone of student engagement, offering resources for visa compliance, cultural adaptation, and community involvement. International students benefit from a vibrant calendar of co-curricular events celebrating global traditions such as Holi, Diwali, Taste of Africa, and Thanksgiving, alongside welcome receptions and international sports activities. In addition, OIES fosters a strong sense of belonging through orientation programs and student-centered services. Lamar also promotes global citizenship through diverse study abroad and exchange opportunities, while offering a range of merit-based scholarships that make its world-class education more accessible and affordable for international students.
A Premier STEM Destination
Lamar University has rapidly emerged as a leading choice for Indian students pursuing STEM disciplines, offering a dynamic platform for advanced research, innovation, and global collaboration. Recognized nationally for its return on investment—particularly through its College of Engineering —the university emphasizes cutting-edge research in high-demand areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and chemical engineering.
With state-of-the-art facilities like the Advanced Materials Research Lab, the Process Engineering Technology Lab, and the Center for Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship (CICE), students engage in interdisciplinary, real-world projects that often lead to patents, startups, and global recognition. The presence of a strong Indian faculty base, particularly in departments like Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, enhances the intellectual ecosystem by contributing to pioneering work in power systems, smart grid technologies, and AI-driven engineering solutions.
Lamar students, including many from India, consistently earn accolades at prestigious platforms such as the AIChE Student Design Competition, IEEE conferences, the NSBE Conference, and the Texas Space Grant Consortium Design Challenge. Faculty members of Indian origin have secured grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF), further underlining the university’s commitment to cutting-edge research and academic excellence.
Lamar University Inspiring Journeys
Lamar University has cultivated a vibrant, multicultural academic community, empowering students from across the globe to excel both academically and professionally. Among its diverse alumni are numerous Indian and international graduates who have gone on to achieve significant success in their respective fields.
Notable alumni include Luzia Moba from Luanda, Angola, a Biology major who is now a successful registered nurse. Her involvement with the International Student Council at Lamar University enabled her to connect with peers from around the world, offering an enriching cultural and educational experience.
Another inspiring story is that of Aalok Kafle from Bhaktapur, Nepal, who is pursuing a Doctor of Engineering in Civil Engineering. Under the mentorship of Dr. Uddameri, Aalok has gained valuable insights and developed a forward-thinking vision for his field. He credits Lamar University for equipping him not only with technical knowledge but also with a transformative academic experience.
Your Future Starts at Lamar University
Lamar University continues to strengthen its position in the global higher education landscape through a strategic focus on internationalization and cross-cultural collaboration. Since Fall 2021, the university has witnessed a remarkable 300% increase in international student enrollment—a clear reflection of its rising global appeal, welcoming campus environment, and commitment to academic excellence.
A key driver of this growth is LU’s expanding portfolio of international partnerships, including its collaboration with the International School of Business and Research in Bengaluru, India.
To deepen its international footprint, Lamar University is actively investing in study abroad initiatives, offering both semester-long exchange programs and faculty-led experiences that immerse students in diverse cultural contexts. Looking ahead, LU aims to expand its reach through new global academic collaborations, virtual exchange opportunities, and joint research endeavors.